Transition care is a planned process that helps young people move from paediatric healthcare to adult healthcare services. It focuses on maintaining continuity of care while helping young people develop the knowledge, confidence and skills to take a more active role in managing their own health.
Transition Care
This process focuses on building independence, supporting young people to understand their health conditions, and helping them develop the skills needed to manage their own healthcare.
Overview
What is transition care?
Transitioning from paediatric to adult healthcare is a planned and gradual process, usually occurring between the ages of 14 and 19 years.
For young people with chronic health conditions or disabilities, this transition involves moving from a family-centred paediatric care model to a more patient-centred adult healthcare system.
The transition
Preparing for adult healthcare
Preparation for transition may include:
- Developing self-management skills, including understanding medications and treatments
- Creating a summary of medical history and current care needs
- Establishing care with a GP and appropriate adult specialists
- Identifying supports and services that may assist with independence, including NDIS support where appropriate
The process
The transition process
Transition typically occurs in several stages:
Planning (12–15 years)
Early discussions begin around future healthcare needs and preparation for adult services.
Preparation (15–18 years)
Young people gradually take a more active role in managing their health, including learning about their condition, medications, and appointments.
Transfer (18–19 years)
Care is formally transferred from paediatric providers to adult specialists and rehabilitation services.
Follow-up & adjustment
Ongoing support helps ensure the young person is comfortable navigating the adult healthcare system.
Our Approach
At Coast & Rivers Rehab, transition care focuses on ensuring continuity of rehabilitation and supporting young people to confidently navigate adult healthcare services.
Our goal is to provide coordinated, patient-centred care that reduces gaps in treatment, supports independence, and promotes positive long-term health outcomes.
More information
Frequently asked questions
What is transition care for young people?
When should transition from paediatric to adult healthcare begin?
Planning for the transition to adult healthcare can begin from around 12 to 15 years of age, with the process usually continuing through the teenage years. Starting early allows time to build self-management skills, establish appropriate adult healthcare providers and prepare for a gradual transfer of care.
How can transition care support young people with disabilities or chronic health conditions?
For young people with disabilities or chronic health conditions, transition care can help coordinate the move between paediatric and adult specialists, rehabilitation providers and other support services. It may also involve developing greater independence with medications, appointments and treatment, while identifying services such as NDIS supports where appropriate.
Where can I access transition care in the Northern Rivers and on the Gold Coast?
Coast & Rivers Rehab provides transition care to support young people moving from paediatric to adult healthcare services. Our approach focuses on continuity of rehabilitation, coordinated care and helping each young person develop greater confidence and independence in managing their health.
Visit our clinic
Book an appointment at our John Flynn clinic
